How to set up Wireless when PC ethernet-connected will be removed

[BobJacksonNCI]

I have this PC (the one I'm entering this message with) connected to a Motorola cable modem.
The modem should be current - it's used by Time Warner to provide All in One - internet, cable TV and phone service.

At the moment, this is the only operational PC and I don't want to keep it in the room with the cable modem.

I have a Microsoft 802.11b (MN-610) kit that was previously used until the untimely demise of one of my PC's. (New motherboard to install and then negotiate with Microsoft to allow use of Windows XP that had been pre-loaded - and probably won't load with new motherboard. At least an all-day job, so I haven't tackled it, yet.)

I want to set up the wireless router and then unplug this PC and use it with the wireless adapter in another room.

Is this do-able, or should I wait until I have two operational PC's?

Also, since my wireless kit is dated, should I instead be picking up a current 802.11g kit? I'm not a gamer, so I don't need the speed...

As always, Thank You for assisting!
Bob

 

[Frank4d]

You'll want to start out with the PC plugged into the router so you can access the setup menus. Once you have done that you can disconnect the PC, move it, and set up the wireless.

If the MN-610 is working and you don't care about speed, might as well keep it.

 

[j0ckser]

agreed (with Frank4d)

caveat: if you can find (borrow) a wifi enabled laptop as a tester it would help you. i recently moved and wound up going from a situation where i had 5bars quality and 5bars strength on my reception to 4/4 (at max) down to 3/3. initially i could not connect. i would love to say that i know what i did to make the connection work, but i cannot. the signal has stayed the same, but i have now connected. if the laptop connects easily, then so should your desktop when you move. just make sure you test where you will eventually work.

per ardua ad astra

 

[BobJacksonNCI]

Thank you both for posting!

I am wirelessly operational.

No offense, but your answers were pretty basic so I chose not to award any stars.

I could not find the original CD that came with my kit and could not find the software to download. I considered buying additional Microsoft hardware on Ebay that would include the CD. Didn't seem practical to buy more outdated equipment that isn't supported.

I almost! bought a D-Link DI-624 from TigerDirect that would have cost 14.95 + postage after rebates. But then I read reviews. Some buyers of that model are happy, but seems333 more are dissatisfied.

I then concentrated on finding the highest rated 54 mps brand/model. That's basic 802.11g. Remembering that I don't really need the speed but I did want ease of installation, reliability and more current security.

Bought Linksys (owned by Cisco) WRT54G from Radio Shack for 49.95 - on sale. Surprisingly, the "EZ Setup" wouldn't run to completion for me.

But a call to Linksys was all it took. Their support lady I spoke with was excellent. If other considerations are equal, I would recommend Linksys!

Now, I don't really have more security because I bought the router, only, and am still using the Microsoft 802.11b wireless adapter. Thought went into the choice - the adapter (actually, whole kit) was rock-solid for several years.

So, when I come across a wireless 802.11g adapter on sale, I will upgrade security and speed. And it can be anyone's because I didn't pay extra for a router with proprietary speed boosting.

Clearly, this router does NOT drop signals!
I didn't have that problem with my Microsoft router, either. But, I read it happens a lot for some using other equipment - especially "bleeding edge". I'm typing between Texas Hold'em hands while periodically checking my e-mail.

Well, I don't want to use up Tek-tips hard drive, so I'll close. This has been a good test of my new router.

And thanks to all who assist others on Tek-Tips!
Bob